Communication Minister holds talks with Digital Media Society on media reforms

KATHMANDU: Minister for Information and Communication Dr Bikram Timilsina on Monday held talks with representatives of the 'Digital Media Society' on the current state of the media industry, its challenges and proposed policy reforms.

Speaking at the meeting at the Ministry, Dr Timilsina said a robust democracy was unlikely without a strong media industry and pledged the government's readiness to address the problems facing the sector.

He said the Ministry was committed to ensuring a more robust, institutional, credible and professional media and expected support from all stakeholders. He also urged the media to maintain its dignity, credibility and social responsibility.

Dr Timilsina said the government was working on policy, legal and institutional reforms to strengthen the media sector and raise its standing. He expressed concern about the spread of sensational content, fake news and deepfakes created using artificial intelligence, and called for cooperation to tackle these challenges.

The minister added that discussions on a mass communications bill and a media council bill have begun and that the bills will be made contextual and practical based on recommendations from stakeholders.

Representatives of the 'Digital Media Society' said the role of the Press Council should be strengthened to ensure effective regulation of the media sector, self‑discipline and implementation of professional codes of conduct.